Corb7 International June 27th, 2023 Newsletter

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International Business 

Editor's Note

July 4th is next Tuesday. 

It sneaks up on you. 

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John Adams, a staunch supporter of American independence and a representative for Boston at the First Continental Congress, felt that, after America gained independence from Great Britain, July 2nd was the correct date on which to celebrate American Independence Day. July 2nd was when the vote for independence took place. July 4, 1776 was when the Declaration of Independence was officially signed. Thereafter, Adams would reportedly decline invitations to appear at July 4th events in protest. In an interesting turn of events, July 4th would prove significant to Adams in another way. Both Adams and Thomas Jefferson, another key figure in American history, died on July 4, 1826, which marked the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

With all due respect to Mr. Adams, this year July 4th is a big deal.  For many of us in the United States, it will represent more than America’s independence – which is always a huge day - but also the third year escape from the 2020 pandemic.   This Tuesday as I click on ESPN to watch Joey Chestnut defend his hot dog eating championship from Coney Island, and my wife starts final preparations for friends coming over; I will take a moment to remember.  Even with all the challenges and political divisions we have all witnessed over the last several years, it is important to unplug, celebrate and participate in life.  No matter where you reside in the world, I hope you are well.  

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International Business

Business Psychology

Take a Break 

Give yourself a break.

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Brief breaks during the work day can dramatically improve one's ability to focus on a task.

A recant study published in the journal Cognition found that brief mental breaks can improve focus on a prolonged task. The study's authors tested participants' ability to focus on a repetitive computerized task for 50 minutes under various conditions. The control group performed the task without breaks or diversions. The switch group and non-switch group memorized four digits before performing the task and were directed to respond if they saw one of the digits on the screen while performing the task. The switch group was the only group to be presented with the digits twice during the experiment, and both groups were tested on their memory of the digits at the end of the task. Most participants' performance declined considerably over the course of the 50-minute task. However, the performance of those in the switch group did not decline at all, as the two brief breaks to respond to the digits allowed them to maintain their focus throughout the experiment.

The researchers behind the study concluded that the switch group's performance was steady because the brain is built to detect and respond to change, and its performance will actually suffer if it must maintain prolonged attention on a single task without taking a break. Professionals with a lot on their plates may see their performance improve by taking frequent mental breaks throughout the workday.

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International Business 

Cross-Border Business 

2023 Bermuda Captive Insurance Conference

The World's Premier Insurance Haven. 

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September 11-13th

The Bermuda Captive Conference is returning  September 11–13, 2023 at the Hamilton Princess in Bermuda.

Bermuda is the largest global hub of captive insurance with over 700 captive insurance companies and $34 billion annual gross written premiums.  The Bermuda Captive Conference was created in 2004 to help promote, support, and grow the island’s world-leading captive insurance industry sector. The three-day conference is Bermuda’s largest and longest-running industry event, held every June, attracting more than 800 delegates, half from overseas.

Review
A captive is defined as an insurance company established in an offshore jurisdiction, created and controlled by either a parent company or professional association through which their own risk is insured. Those insured risks are frequently re-insured through a large multinational carrier.

The cost of insurance represents a considerable expense for most businesses. In recent years, premiums have skyrocketed leading many professionals to explore creative cost reduction strategies. One imaginative – yet proven – strategy is the use of wholly-owned subsidiaries to meet insurance needs which can control or even cut expenditures. Captives can be established to self-insure part or all of property loss, product liability, work compensation, malpractice and virtually any other coverage. Consequently, the driving force behind the move to offshore captive insurance extends virtually across all industries including, but not limited to: medical malpractice, workers compensation, manufacturing, financial, energy-related, and real estate developers, just to name a few. Over 350 of the Fortune 500 companies in the United States have insurance captives. As a result, Captive Insurance Companies have become a growing and significant sector of the global insurance industry.

Benefits:
1. Instances when insurance cannot be purchased from commercial insurance companies for a business risk. In many instances companies within an industry form a joint captive insurance company for that reason.

2. In very specific cases, premiums paid to a captive insurance company may be deductible as a business expense for tax purposes according to the Internal Revenue Service. It is important to note that the IRS has established very strict guidelines to qualify for tax benefits and the use of a professional is critical.  The rule of thumb is that the insurance company will need to be adequately capitalized and offer sufficient third party (non-related) insurance to qualify.

3. Insurance can be obtained through the international reinsurance market at a more favorable premium with higher limits of coverage.

4. Investment returns can be obtained directly on its invested capital.

Bermuda
Bermuda stands as the world's leader in Captive Insurance.  As such, their annual conference is consider one of the most important in the industry.  

Conference Information

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International Business   

Business Etiquette 

 

Table Setting Etiquette 

by Candace Smith
The Etiquette Blog
Candace Smith Etiquette

Biography:  Candace Smith, wife of Nobel Prize-Winner Professor Dr. Vernon Smith and owner of the extraordinary blog, “Etiquette for the Business of Life” as featured by BBC, Chicago Tribune and USA Today offers her insights.

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Table setting etiquette is a system, evolved over time, that ensures an orderly meal.  

It contains informative place settings that serve as maps, giving you a glimpse of the foods, you are about to enjoy.  You know what you're being served and are prepared to eat it with the proper utensils.

A well-set table feels so orderly and comforting, you may not give much thought to it.  Unless it's not there.

Disorder doesn't have the same appeal as order.  What if you approached a table set like this?

General Table Setting Etiquette

• Utensils are placed in order of use from the outside in.
• Knives (except for the butter knife) are always placed to the right of the plate.
• Forks (except for the oyster fork, which is placed to the right of the spoons) are always on the left.
• The dessert utensils are placed above the main plate, the spoon on the top, with its handle facing the right.  The fork is placed under the spoon, with its handle facing the left of the place setting.
• Knife blades always face you and your plate.  It may be considered offensive to point the blade at another diner.
• The bread plate is on the left side of your main plate, and glasses are on the right side.
• The water glass always goes above the knives.  Wine and other glasses are placed in order of use, from the farthest right toward the inside of the place setting.
• Bread is not considered a course but, if served, use a bread plate and butter knife.
• A beverage is not considered a course, but certain wines may be served to match certain courses.
• Napkins are placed to the left of the forks or on the service plate.
• Avoid cluttering the place setting.
• Only place utensils to be used.  For example, if you are serving ice cream for dessert, only the dessert spoon is necessary.  You do not need to place a dessert fork as well.
• If you decorate using a centerpiece, make sure it is no higher than about seven inches so diners can still make eye contact with each other.

Place Setting Memory Tips

• When you read your place setting from left to right, you see BMW - Bread, Meal, Water.
• The acronym FOrKS helps you remember that: The Fork is on the left, O is for the plate in the center, then comes the Knife, and Spoon on the right.
• The fingers on your left hand form a 'b' and the fingers on your right hand form a 'd' to remind you that the bread is on your left, and your drink is on your right.

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Lifestyle

Executive Fitness 

Brain Health

Protecting your Brain!  

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Cognitive decline is a condition that is often associated with aging, but even middle-aged people can experience memory loss or cognition issues. The video above is a Ted Talk from 2016 and one of the best I have personally come across when it comes to discussing prevention and placing the odds in your favor.  Hope you have a chance to review and also read some more ideas below. 

The Alzheimer's Association says that more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. By 2050, that number could rise to as high as 16 million people. More than 747,000 Canadians are living with Alzheimer's or another dementia, says the Canadian Alzheimer's Association.

Although there is no definitive way to prevent dementia, living a long, vibrant life may be possible by encouraging some healthy habits for the brain. It is never too late or too early to begin health and lifestyle changes.

Exercise

Becoming more active can improve brain volume, reduce risk for dementia and improve thinking and memory skills. The journal Neurology found that older people who vigorously exercise performed better on cognitive tests than others of the same age, placing them at the equivalent of 10 years younger. Increased blood flow that occurs with physical activity may help generate new neurons in the hippocampus, an area of the brain involved with learning and memory.

The Harvard Medical School says aerobic exercise may help improve brain tissue by improving blood flow and reducing the chances of injury to the brain from cholesterol buildup in blood vessels.

Quit smoking

The Alzheimer's Association indicates that evidence shows smoking increases the risk of cognitive decline. Smoking can impair blood flow to the brain and cause small strokes that may damage blood vessels.

Eat healthy foods

Foods that are good for the heart and blood vessels also are good for the brain. These include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish-based proteins, unsaturated fats, and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids. Neurologists state that, while research on diet and cognitive function is limited, diets, such as Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may contribute to a lower risk of cognitive issues.

Consume caffeine

Caffeine may help boost memory performance and brain health. A Journal of Nutrition study found people ages 70 and older who consumed more caffeine scored better on tests of mental function than those who consumed less caffeine. Caffeine may help improve attention span, cognitive function and feelings of well-being. Information from Psychology Today also indicates caffeine may help in the storage of dopamine, which can reduce feelings of depression and anxiety. In addition, compounds in cocoa and coffee beans may improve vascular health and help repair cellular damage due to high antioxidant levels.

Work the brain

Engaging in mentally stimulating activities can create new brain connections and more backup circuits, states Dr. Joel Salinas, a neurologist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. Working the brain through puzzles, reading and participating in social situations can stimulate the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a molecule essential for repairing brain cells and creating connections between them.

A good way to combine these lifestyle factors is to take an exercise class with friends, mixing the social, stimulation and exercise recommendations together.

Cognitive decline can come with aging, but through healthy habits, people can reduce their risk of memory loss and dementia. 

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Lifestyle

International Spirits & Cuisine  

The History of American Hot Dogs

Few foods may seem as American as hot dogs. However, hot dogs are derivative of European sausages.

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Hot dogs are the yin to the hamburger's yang. Franks and burgers are a common pair at barbecues and ballparks, and rightfully so. Handheld, portable meals, they pack a convenient and flavorful punchy.

Few foods may seem as American as hot dogs. However, hot dogs are derivative of European sausages. This fact and more can shed light on the humble hot dog, which is sure to find its way to a grill near you this summer.

· Mental Floss says it's pretentious to consume a hot dog with utensils. Hot dog etiquette experts also insist adults should not top their hot dogs with ketchup, which they suggest is a topping strictly reserved for children.

· Hot dogs are often associated with New York City. However, hot dogs gained popularity across the country in the 20th century.

· Hot dogs are often called frankfurters. This refers to Frankfurt, Germany, where pork sausages similar to hot dogs are believed to have originated.

· Hot dogs were given their name by cartoonist Tad Dorgan. He observed a vendor selling "hot dachshund sausage dogs" during a baseball game at New York City's Polo Grounds. As legend has it, Dorgan couldn't spell the name of the dog, instead writing only "hot dogs." The name eventually caught on.

· Despite several jokes as well as speculation regarding what hot dogs contain, hot dogs are cured and cooked sausages that contain mainly pork, beef, chicken, and turkey. The meats come from the muscle of the animals. If a product contains organ meats, it must be declared on the packaging.

· In 1867, Charles Feltman made a cart with a stove on it, which he used to boil sausages. The cart also had compartments to keep buns fresh. Carts that sell hot dogs on the street are now seen in cities across the country.

· Hot dogs are a NASA-approved food for astronauts.

· While hot dogs are sold at many venues, data indicates that the popular convenience store chain 7-Eleven sells the most grilled hot dogs in North America, with 100 million sold annually.

· Relish, sauerkraut and even ketchup are popular hot dog toppings. But mustard is by far the most popular.

· Why are there typically 10 hot dogs per pack and only eight buns per bag? When hot dogs were first introduced, they were sold at varying quantities at the butcher shop. Hot dogs were eventually standardized to packages of 10, but buns are baked in clusters of four in popular pans designed to hold eight rolls.

Hot dogs are a summertime staple that have an interesting and extensive history. 

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Lifestyle 

Leisure & Style 

 

Happy July 4th!  

Here are some interesting details about the origins of Independence Day and the celebrations that surround it. 

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Each year on July 4, Americans celebrate the birth of their nation and independence from Great Britain. This day marks the anniversary of the presentation and acceptance of the Declaration of Independence, signed 246 years ago on July 4, 1776.

The Declaration of Independence began as a letter to Britain's King George to explain why the Continental Congress was interested in declaring independence from Great Britain. The writing of the declaration began on July 2 and the final wording was established on July 4.

Independence Day is full of opportunities to celebrate and enjoy oneself. Parades, fireworks, parties, barbecues, and much more are part of the festivities.

Another way to commemorate Independence Day is to educate oneself about the many historical and entertaining facts that surround the day. The following are some interesting details about the origins of Independence Day and the celebrations that surround it.

· Although 56 people eventually signed the Declaration of Independence, only John Hancock signed the document on July 4, 1776. The rest added their names later on. John Hancock's signature is ornate and widely recognized. Putting your "John Hancock" on a document has become synonymous with the process of signing something.

· The Declaration of Independence was adopted while the Continental Congress met in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Statehouse. That building is now known as Independence Hall.

· The average age of the signers of the Declaration of Independence was 45. The youngest person to sign was Thomas Lynch, Jr., who was 27 when he signed the document. Benjamin Franklin, at age 70, was the oldest signee.

· John Adams and Thomas Jefferson were the only signees who went on to serve as presidents. Coincidentally, Jefferson and Adams both died on July 4, 1826, within hours of each other.

· Philadelphia is the birth place of much American history and is home to the Liberty Bell. Each Independence Day, the Liberty Bell is tapped (not rung, as the vibration would further damage the cracked bell) 13 times in honor of the original 13 American colonies.

· The original 13 American colonies were located all along the eastern seaboard. They include Virginia, New York, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Maryland, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Delaware, North Carolina, South Carolina, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Georgia.

· The stars on the original American flag were placed in a circle. This was so all of the colonies would be equally represented.

· Independence was gained in 1776, and the first celebration took place in Philadelphia four days later. The White House held its first Independence Day festivities in 1801.

· Benjamin Franklin proposed that the turkey be the national bird of the United States. However, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson overruled him, and the bald eagle became the national bird.

· The only copy of the engrossed and signed Declaration of Independence is in the National Archives in Washington, D.C.

Independence Day is a time for hot dogs, ice cream and, of course, revisiting America's history.

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Lifestyle

Travel 

Luxury Travel

A luxury travel option.  

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From a 24/7 on-site concierge to taking meticulous care over every detail, Inspirato is a private vacation club for travelers who enjoy five-star service.  With privileged access to luxurious villas in some of the world’s best locations, this unique service manages several hundred million dollars’ worth of luxury vacation homes offering privacy and variety 

Inspirato is a luxury travel company that offers exclusive vacation experiences and personalized service to its members. They provide access to a carefully curated collection of luxury residences, hotels, and experiences in destinations around the world. Inspirato members enjoy benefits such as spacious accommodations, dedicated trip planning assistance, and access to amenities like private clubs, golf courses, and ski slopes.
 
The company focuses on delivering exceptional travel experiences with a high level of service. Inspirato's portfolio includes a diverse range of vacation options, from beachfront villas and city apartments to mountain lodges and private islands. Members can choose from a variety of destinations and tailor their trips to their preferences.
 
Inspirato takes care of the details, including pre-trip planning, personalized itineraries, and on-site concierge services. They strive to create memorable and hassle-free experiences for their members, allowing them to relax and enjoy their vacations to the fullest.
 
To become a member of Inspirato, individuals typically pay an initiation fee and an annual membership fee. In return, they gain access to the company's luxury travel portfolio and a range of additional benefits and services. Inspirato offers flexibility in booking and allows members to transfer their travel plans to friends, family, or business associates.
 
Overall, Inspirato aims to provide its members with exceptional luxury travel experiences, personalized service, and access to a portfolio of exclusive accommodations and destinations.


Company Website:  

Click Here to Visit Site

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Business Services

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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR SALE!

Corb7 International
"Think Seven Continents, Think a World of Opportunity"

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NEW OPPRONTUITIES COMING SOON!

For Information regarding future opportunities please contact our office and schedule a complimentary consultation.  
 
Contact us at:  +1-310-601-3115 (Beverly Hills Office)

or Email: contact@corb7.com